Title: Lone Soldier Surprised by Family at Swearing-In Ceremony Rehearsal
Subtitle: Ultra-Orthodox Parents Change Stance, Travel From Mexico to Support Son’s Military Enlistment
Lod, Israel – In a heartwarming turn of events, Manny Shvika Mizrahi, a lone soldier who defied his ultra-Orthodox parents’ opposition to enlist in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), was happily surprised by his family at the general rehearsal for the swearing-in ceremony today.
Manny’s journey to serve his adopted homeland faced numerous obstacles, leading him to seek assistance from the “Oshi Hail” association. The organization dedicated to supporting soldiers from ultra-Orthodox backgrounds played a crucial role in helping Manny immigrate from Mexico and provided him with accommodation in the Bar Falah apartment complex in Lod, alongside other single soldiers.
The tide began to turn when Aharon Garnot, Chairman of the “Oshi Hail” association, initiated a series of conversations with Manny’s father. These discussions resulted in a change of heart, with both parents ultimately agreeing to their son’s conscription and expressing a desire to travel to Israel to surprise him at the swearing-in ceremony.
Today’s general rehearsal, held at the Corps of Engineers monument in Hula, witnessed a heartwarming reunion as Manny’s family surprised him in front of his fellow unit members. Amidst thunderous applause, Manny’s father sprinted towards his son, with his mother and pregnant sister walking behind them proudly sporting t-shirts declaring their relation to the “best soldier.”
The story of Manny’s unyielding resolve and his family’s conversion encapsulates the essence of the “Ooshi Hail” association. Founded by Aharon Granot seven years ago, the organization serves as a lifeline for soldiers who have been ostracized by their ultra-Orthodox families. With 11 branches across Israel, “Ooshi Hail” currently supports and provides a nurturing environment for 83 servicemen and women, along with 250 graduates residing in 24 dedicated apartments.
The power of familial love and reconciliation truly shone through as Manny’s parents transcended their initial opposition to stand by their son during this important milestone. Their presence at the swearing-in ceremony will undoubtedly serve as a poignant reminder of the unity and strength that can arise from even the most challenging circumstances.
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